In the world of sport, we see palpable examples of how leadership, shared vision and conviction can lead teams to achieve extraordinary results. But what would happen if these dynamics, so obvious on the court, moved to the business field?
When we talk about leadership, we refer to those people who have the ability to inspire and positively influence a group, bringing the best of each individual and the whole. In this way, synergy is generated, making the result of the equipment greater than the sum of the individualities.
These leaders obtain results higher than average and usually mark a before and after; They leave a mark that defines an era, either in sport, industry, any activity or company.
Cases. What do teams have in common Los Pumas, Las Leonas, gladiators and the so -called golden generation? In the first place, all are Argentine teams that participate in together sports, many of which have not always had the relevance that is recognized today.
Secondly, although some of them are increasingly professionals and receive better remuneration, it could be said that they come from “below”, in the sense of not having large budgets or sponsors for their development.
Thirdly, and most importantly, based on clear leaderships, both on and off the field, a strong team identity and a defined vision of what they want to be, have generated very significant results and have achieved large Achievements
Each of these teams and sports is in a different stage of evolution towards their goals, but all share the three aspects mentioned.
The question that arises is: the dynamics of these teams and their leadership can be applied to the business world, beyond the simple metaphor that is usually done between both worlds in times of euphoria? The answer is yes, but, as in sport, it is necessary to move from the rhetoric of specific moments to a planned, constant and daily work to achieve the results.
So, to lead in companies as in sport it is required: a clear and shared vision; honest leaders committed to vision; a good “players” selection process; a well -designed “game” plan, that is, a strategy; constant mood impulse, both in good and in bad times; Ability to handle emotions, egos, and inspire; deep knowledge of adversaries and competitors; construction of a strong identity and sense of belonging; Leave a legacy to future generations, a memorable story; and cultivate a winning mentality.
The process behind success. I have had the opportunity to practice rugby for many years, and in my youth, other sports such as football, basketball and rowing. In addition, I have developed my professional life working in very diverse industries, teams and cultures. Both in sport and companies, I have verified that when all or a large part of the aforementioned points are met, the teams not only achieve results, but also create unique moments that their members will never forget. Likewise, a clear characteristic that defines the leaders of these teams is the deep conviction they have to achieve their objectives, even when many doubt.
I always remember an interview with Agustín Pichot, former captain of Los Pumas, shortly before the 2007 Rugby World Cup, in which he said: “We are going to look for the title.” That year, the Pumas obtained third place and defeated the host team twice, which demonstrates conviction and results.
We could mention coaches and players of all Argentine teams who, tournament after tournament and Olympiad after Olympiad, have overcome their achievements and improve their brands, reaching recognition and marking historical milestones.
Let’s get the following question: Any Argentine team has reached a tournament or an Olympiad by chance? The answer is none. There is a process behind, a story, a dream, hard work, falls and victories, a day to day with frustrations and joys. There is conviction. There is a goal, something to become; There is leadership on and off the field.
Leaders who are able to mark a time have a unique feature: they know how people work and how to get the best of each one depending on the team. They know how to set the example, handle egos and emotions, and surround themselves with the best to achieve the result.
In companies exactly the same happens. Some leaders leave a mark, a legacy, while others simply leave ephemeral results and collateral damage after their achievements. Companies that promote these positive leaderships usually, not without effort, create times of prosperity and success. They inspire and are aspirational.
Both in sport and in companies, the secret to maintaining these qualities over time lies in sustaining this type of leadership with adequate processes, policies and behaviors. No team comes by chance, no company is successful, in time, by chance.
Leading is a great challenge that requires sacrifices, perseverance and integrity, but those who achieve it enjoy incomparable satisfaction of having marked a milestone, an era.
*Marcelo Villegas is an ontological coach and lawyer specializing in Labor Law and HR with great career and experience in negotiations, leadership and complex conflict management.
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By Marcelo Villegas
